Pairing Tango & Parkinson's

Monday April 23, 2018

The reality of Parkinson's can often make you feel overwhelmed and discouraged. Some days you may not want to go out and be ‘active’. But support from friends and family, and those in your Parkinson's community can really make a difference. That connection is important in dealing with life with Parkinson's. And the Tango.

At first glance, dancing the tango and Parkinson’s seem like an unlikely pair. Gabriela Condrea, founder of TangoStride™, a tango dance program created for those with mobility issues like multiple sclerosis, PARKINSON’S, strokes, and other neurological conditions. Each session is set at the person’s own pace and one-on-one with Condrea herself.

TangoStride™ was started after Gabriela’s time in Buenos Aires working in a dance studio. After working with a dance instructor who danced with PWP’s exclusively she thought it would be great to combine his method of dancing to suit the needs of those with mobility issues. Gabriela describes the program as a dance class and therapy session combined.

While some may feel hesitant to attend TangoStride™, Gabriela encourages those to talk to her and so together you can create a dance that best fits your needs. If you can bear your weight for ten seconds, Gabriela is willing to be your support. This support, extends to carepartners as well. TangoStride™ can be a great activity for persons affected with Parkinson’s to take part in. Sometimes, just knowing you are doing an activity with someone makes you want to participate for their sake. Gabriela finds this especially true in her students.

Witnessing people who come to the class in using wheelchairs, canes, and walkers go beyond what they thought they can do, motivates Gabriela to continue TangoStride™. “They often call it a ‘bright spot’ in their day-seeming them light up is such a great feeling,” Gabriela says. Likewise, one event-goer had told her excitedly they were ‘practicing their steps’ before class. The dance program’s mission is to “dance to walk”.

Gabriela sees the program expanding in the next decade to offer more classes to those affected with Parkinson’s and strokes. As more people attend, the program reaches new people. Word of mouth and doctor referrals have raised awareness for TangoStride™. The program has also been covered by The Seattle Times as well.

If you feel unsure about TangoStride™ or want more information visit TangoStride.com. The Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation (NWPF) encourages those affected with Parkinson’s to live their best life on their own terms. We recommend you find the exercise program that is right for you.